The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is one of the most sought-after paramilitary agencies in the country. If you're planning to join the NCS or are simply curious, this 2025 FG-verified guide explains everything about the Customs ranks, salary structure, and allowances in Nigeria.
What Is the Nigeria Customs Service?
The Nigeria Customs Service is a government agency responsible for the regulation and collection of customs duties, prevention of smuggling, and enforcement of trade regulations. Established in 1891, it operates under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Finance.
NCS Ranks in Nigeria (2025)
The NCS is divided into two major categories of officers:
Commissioned Officers:
| Rank | Description |
|---|---|
| Comptroller-General of Customs | Head of the NCS |
| Deputy Comptroller-General | Assists the CG; heads major departments |
| Assistant Comptroller-General | Supervises zones and special units |
| Comptroller | Commands Customs Area Commands |
| Deputy Comptroller | Assists the Comptroller |
| Assistant Comptroller | Junior command position |
| Chief Superintendent of Customs | Senior operational officer |
| Superintendent of Customs | Supervises mid-level operations |
| Deputy Superintendent of Customs | Assists Superintendent |
| Assistant Superintendent I | Entry-level commissioned officer |
| Assistant Superintendent II | Junior commissioned officer |
Non-Commissioned Officers:
| Rank | Description |
|---|---|
| Inspector of Customs | Senior junior officer |
| Assistant Inspector | Junior field officer |
| Customs Assistant I | Entry-level non-commissioned staff |
| Customs Assistant II | Support staff |
| Customs Assistant III | Lowest rank in the Service |
Nigeria Customs Service Salary Structure (2025)
NCS salaries are based on the CONPASS (Consolidated Paramilitary Salary Structure), with added allowances and bonuses.
| Rank | Monthly Salary (₦) |
|---|---|
| Comptroller-General | ₦2,800,000 – ₦3,500,000 |
| Deputy Comptroller-General | ₦2,500,000 – ₦2,800,000 |
| Assistant Comptroller-General | ₦2,000,000 – ₦2,500,000 |
| Comptroller | ₦1,800,000 – ₦2,000,000 |
| Deputy Comptroller | ₦1,500,000 – ₦1,800,000 |
| Assistant Comptroller | ₦1,300,000 – ₦1,500,000 |
| Chief Superintendent of Customs | ₦1,000,000 – ₦1,300,000 |
| Superintendent of Customs | ₦900,000 – ₦1,000,000 |
| Deputy Superintendent of Customs | ₦800,000 – ₦950,000 |
| Assistant Superintendent I | ₦700,000 – ₦850,000 |
| Assistant Superintendent II | ₦600,000 – ₦750,000 |
| Inspector of Customs | ₦200,000 – ₦500,000 |
| Assistant Inspector | ₦180,000 – ₦250,000 |
| Customs Assistant I | ₦150,000 – ₦200,000 |
| Customs Assistant II | ₦130,000 – ₦180,000 |
| Customs Assistant III | ₦100,000 – ₦150,000 |
Salaries may vary based on years of service, training, and duty location.
Benefits and Allowances for Customs Officers
Customs officers enjoy a wide range of government-approved benefits, including:
-
Housing allowance
-
Transport allowance
-
Uniform allowance
-
Hazard allowance
-
Duty tour allowance (DTA)
-
Medical care
-
Pension scheme
-
Annual leave
Recruitment Requirements (2025)
To apply for the Nigeria Customs Service in 2025, you must:
-
Be a Nigerian citizen by birth
-
Be between 18 and 30 years old
-
Have at least 5 credits in SSCE including English and Maths
-
Possess ND, HND, or university degree for officer roles
-
Be physically and mentally fit
-
Not have any criminal record
Recruitment is conducted via the official portal: https://customs.gov.ng
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the highest rank in NCS?
A: The highest rank is the Comptroller-General of Customs.
Q2: How much does a Customs officer earn monthly?
A: Salaries range from ₦100,000 for entry-level to ₦3.5 million for top officials.
Q3: What qualifications are needed to join the Customs?
A: At minimum, an SSCE certificate. Higher ranks require ND, HND, or university degrees.
Q4: Is Nigeria Customs recruitment free?
A: Yes, recruitment is free. Beware of fraudsters.
Q5: What is the work of a Customs officer?
A: Enforcement of import/export laws, border security, revenue collection, and anti-smuggling operations.
Conclusion
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) remains one of Nigeria’s most respected and rewarding paramilitary careers. With attractive salaries, allowances, and promotion opportunities, it is a dream job for many Nigerian youths. As recruitment opens periodically, prepare your credentials and stay updated via official sources.
